Every NBA season brings new stars into the spotlight, and the second year is often when young players begin to show what they’re truly capable of. After getting their first taste of the league as rookies, these players now have a better understanding of the speed, physicality, and expectations of the NBA. This season is about taking the next step—from promising prospects to reliable stars who can help lead their teams to success.
Here are my Top 10 second-year players heading into the 2026-27 NBA season.
1. Cooper Flagg – Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg enters his sophomore season as the player everyone will be watching. He already proved he can score, rebound, defend, and make plays for his teammates. His confidence continues to grow, and he looks like a future superstar. If he keeps improving at this pace, another All-Star-caliber season could be on the horizon.
2. Dylan Harper – San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper has all the tools to become one of the league’s top point guards. His size, court vision, and ability to control the game make him a perfect fit in San Antonio. Expect him to become more aggressive offensively while continuing to develop into a complete floor general.
3. VJ Edgecombe – Philadelphia 76ers: Edgecombe is one of the most exciting athletes in basketball. He brings explosive energy every night and has the ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. As his offensive game becomes more polished, he could develop into one of the NBA’s premier two-way guards.
4. Ace Bailey – Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey has the talent to become one of the league’s elite scorers. His shot-making ability is impressive, and he isn’t afraid to take big shots when the game is on the line. As he gains experience and becomes more efficient, his production should continue to rise.
5. Kon Knueppel – Charlotte Hornets: Knueppel may not be the flashiest player, but he simply knows how to play winning basketball. His outside shooting, basketball IQ, and decision-making make him one of the most dependable young wings in the league. He has all the ingredients to become a long-term starter.
6. Tre Johnson – Washington Wizards: Tre Johnson is a natural scorer who can heat up in a hurry. His smooth shooting stroke and confidence allow him to create offense from anywhere on the floor. If he becomes a stronger defender, he’ll become one of the top young shooting guards in the NBA.
7. Khaman Maluach – Phoenix Suns: Maluach gives his team a defensive presence every time he steps on the court. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and rim protection make him an anchor in the paint. As his offensive skills continue to improve, he’ll become an even bigger factor.
8. Jeremiah Fears – New Orleans Pelicans:
Jeremiah Fears has tremendous speed and plays with confidence. He attacks the basket fearlessly and has the potential to become an exciting playmaker. Improving his outside shot will make him even more difficult for defenders to contain.
9. Kasparas Jakučionis – Miami Heat: Jakučionis doesn’t always make the highlight reels, but he consistently makes smart basketball plays. His passing, leadership, and feel for the game help his teammates succeed. He’s the type of player every coach wants on the floor.
10. Noa Essengue – Chicago Bulls: Noa Essengue rounds out the Top 10 because of his impressive versatility and defensive potential. His length allows him to guard multiple positions, and as his offensive game develops, he has the chance to become one of the better all-around forwards in the league.
The 2026-27 sophomore class is loaded with talent and future stars. Some players are ready to make the leap into All-Star conversations, while others are just beginning to scratch the surface of their potential. Cooper Flagg leads the way as the player most likely to become one of the NBA’s next superstars, but Dylan Harper, VJ Edgecombe, Ace Bailey, and several others aren’t far behind.
This season will be a defining year for many of these young players. Their development, consistency, and ability to handle bigger roles will shape not only their futures but also the future of their franchises. By the end of the season, don’t be surprised if several names on this list have become household names across the NBA.
